Skittles make statement on Trayvon Martin shooting

SWEET GIANT Skittles have released a statement in response to the death of a black teenager who was gunned down in Florida shortly after purchasing a packet of the candy.

The confectionery company says they are 'deeply saddened' by the killing of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin who was shot and killed by neighbourhood watchman, George Zimmerman in Sanford, Florida, on February 26.

A spokesperson for Skittles told MSNBC: "We are deeply saddened by the news of Trayvon Martin’s death and express our sincere condolences to his family and friends."

They added: "We also respect their privacy and feel it inappropriate to get involved or comment further as we would never wish for our actions to be perceived as an attempt of commercial gain following this tragedy.”

Their response comes in the wake of the growing social media campaign encouraing people to send the Sanford Police Department with packets of Skittles to protest the teen's killing.

ANGER: Protesters hold up skittles during march over the killing of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin

Zimmerman, described as a ‘Spanish speaking minority,’ claimed that the school-boy was acting 'suspicious' and he later shot him in self-defence during a confrontation in the gated community.

During a recent march held in honour of Trayvon in New York’s Union Square his father Tracy told the crowd: "My son did not deserve to die.”

“I don't feel this is the time to break down, even though it's a very troubling time in my life."

"I've told myself, when I get justice for Trayvon, then I'll have my time to break down," he added.

Trayvon’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, said: "My heart is in pain, but to see the support of all of you really makes a difference."

A grand jury will convene in central Florida to consider the case on April 10.